By Teboho Moloi
HARRISMITH – The 50-year old principal of New Horizon College, accused of sexually assaulting a learner, has been remanded in custody and is expected to apply for bail on 24 November 2025 in the Harrismith Magistrate’s Court.
The principal handed himself over to police after allegations emerged that he assaulted a 15-year old learner on the school premises on Tuesday, 11 November. He made a brief first appearance in court on Monday, 17 November.
According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring, the incident was reported by the learner’s parents after she disclosed the alleged assault.
Mophiring said the learner had been studying with classmates when she was summoned to the principal’s staff room.
“Inside an old office, the suspect allegedly touched her inappropriately. The learner went back and informed other learners, who advised her to call her parents. The parents then involved the police, and a case of sexual assault was opened,” Mophiring said.
In a statement, the school’s management said they could not comment further as the matter is under police investigation. They confirmed that internal processes have been initiated and an acting principal has been appointed.
“The school is aware of allegations of inappropriate conduct involving the head of the secondary section. The matter has been reported to the South African Police Service and is now under official investigation,” the statement read.
Management further confirmed that end-of-year examinations will proceed as scheduled.
